Earlier this week, law enforcement responded to a daytime break-in in the Highgate subdivision in Weddington. Deputies quickly located and apprehended one of the suspects involved, 23-year-old Michael Giovanni Bejarano Rodriguez. Rodriguez, along with two other men, forced entry into an occupied home but fled as soon as they realized someone was inside. Fortunately, no one was hurt, and Rodriguez was taken into custody after he and his counterparts fled in their car, which was parked on the roadway near the victim’s home, or on foot.

Thus far in the ongoing investigation, detectives have connected this incident to a larger group of South American nationals who are actively targeting high-value homes across the United States. This organized crime group has been responsible for a growing number of break-ins in cities nationwide. Sadly, our own Union County area has not been immune to this group's criminal activities.

Over the past two years, detectives have investigated approximately 10-15 similar incidents in the Weddington and Marvin areas. While these cases are fewer here than in larger cities, the impact on the homeowners affected is significant. Rest assured, our local law enforcement is working hard, in collaboration with federal agencies, to investigate and apprehend everyone involved in these crimes.

The suspect captured in this week’s incident has been processed into the Union County Detention Center. He faces numerous felony charges, including First-Degree Burglary, Larceny, and Fleeing to Elude Arrest. He remains in custody with a secured bond of $40,000 and an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer.

𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞:

• Share this post and all these tips with your friends, family, and neighbors

• Stay Alert: If you see something suspicious, don’t hesitate to call 911. Prompt action can prevent crimes from escalating.

• Secure Your Home: Ensure your alarm system is activated every time you leave the house and consider investing in a doorbell camera. Security cameras, both inside and outside, are valuable tools for deterring criminal activity and providing evidence if needed.

• Don’t Share Vacation Plans: Avoid posting on social media when you’re away from home for an extended time, as this can signal an opportunity for burglars.

• Vary Your Routine: Make it less predictable when you come and go from your home to make it more difficult for potential criminals to target your property.

• Keep Your Home Lit: Use timers to keep interior lights on, giving the appearance that someone is home even when you're not.

• Protect Valuables: Take photos of important items and store them in a safe. Avoid keeping large amounts of cash at home.

We understand that news like this can be concerning, but we want to reassure you that law enforcement is fully committed to ensuring the safety of our community. By working together and staying vigilant, we can help prevent these crimes and keep our neighborhoods secure.